Synopses & Reviews
A "z pinch" is a deceptively simple plasma configuration in which a longitudinal current produces a magnetic field that confines the plasma. Z-pinch research is currently one of the fastest growing areas of plasma physics, with revived interest in z-pinch controlled fusion reactors along with investigations of new z-pinch applications, such as very high power x-ray sources, high-energy neutrons sources, and ultra-high magnetic fields generators. This book provides a comprehensive review of the physics of dense z pinches and includes many recent experimental results.
Synopsis
A "z-pinch" is a deceptively simple plasma configuration in which a longitudinal current produces a magnetic field that tends to confine the plasma. The simple geometry and low cost made it an early candidate for controlled fusion experiments. However, instabilities and rapid plasma loss motivated the development of more complicated plasma confinement systems such as tokamaks and stellarators. Recent experiments, in which z-pinches produced unprecedented levels of radiation and power, have led to renewed interest in the configuration. As a result, z-pinch research is currently one of the fastest growing areas of plasma physics, with revived interest in z-pinch controlled fusion reactors along with investigations of new z-pinch applications, such as, very high power x-ray sources, high-energy neutrons sources, and ultra-high magnetic fields generators. This book provides a comprehensive review of the physics of dense z-pinches. Although the thrust of the treatment is theoretical, the authors also discuss recent experimental results as well as the operating systems of the main types of electrical drivers.
Synopsis
Plasmas are a hot, ionized gas that conducts electric currents, as in a spark or bolt of lightning; they can reach temperatures of millions of degrees. Sending a large electric current through a fine wire vaporizes it, producing a dense plasma confined by the magnetic field the current generates. The direction along the wire (and the current) is generally referred to as the z-axis, hence the name z-pinch for the magnetic interaction that confines the plasma along the z-axis. Such plasmas can produce intense radiation over a wide spectrum and also show promise of leading to conditions for controlled nuclear fusion.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 251-273) and index.
Table of Contents
Introduction.- Equilibria of Z-Pinch Plasmas.- Dynamics of Z-Pinch Plasmas.- Stability of Z-Pinch Plasmas.- Rayleigh-Taylor Instability of a Plasma Accelerated by Magetic Pressure.- Stability of Dynamic Z-Pinches and Liners.- Applications of Z-Pinches.- Conclusions.- References.